Urban Planning is Not Boring

Samantha Ellman and Natalie Ikhrata
Urban Planning is Not Boring

Passionate about climate change mitigation, finding equitable solutions to the housing crisis, and more, Sam Ellman and Natalie Ikhrata dive into various topics related to the field of urban planning that are anything but boring! This podcast aims to break down complex urban planning concepts and present them in an accessible and engaging way for listeners of all backgrounds. Whether you are a seasoned urban planner or simply interested in learning more about how cities are designed and built, "Urban Planning is Not Boring" is the perfect podcast for you.

  1. Designing Exclusion: Hostile Architecture with Jonathan Pacheco Bell

    24 SEPT

    Designing Exclusion: Hostile Architecture with Jonathan Pacheco Bell

    In this episode of Urban Planning is Not Boring, we sit down with Senior Embedded Planner at 4Leaf Inc., Jonathan Pacheco Bell, to discuss hostile architecture. Jonathan recently appeared on the Decoder Ring and KJZZ NPR Phoenix podcasts where he discussed the inequities in public spaces caused by hostile architecture. He defines hostile architecture as "elements of the built environment that are designed to deter human behaviors and make targeted populations feel uncomfortable in public space." Together, we explore how hostile architecture impacts the built enviornment and public spaces, with a particular focus on how it marginalizes vulnerable communities. We discuss the ethics, impact, and alternatives to designing more inclusive public spaces. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation about the built environment and the oftentimes overlooked strategies shaping our public spaces. About Jonathan Pacheco Bell Jonathan Pacheco Bell is a Senior Embedded Planner at 4LEAF, Inc., Lecturer in Urban & Regional Planning at Cal Poly Pomona, and Vice President/Public Information Officer of the nonprofit Florence-Firestone Community Organization in South Central Los Angeles. A practicing urban planner with over 20 years of experience spanning the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, Jonathan has expertise in community engagement, participatory design, inclusive public space, long-range plans, zoning enforcement ordinance development, planning studies, and project management.During his tenure as a County planner in South Central LA’s Florence-Firestone community, Jonathan created Embedded Planning. This praxis situates the work of planners on the street-level, not behind a desk, to increase equity and participation for historically marginalized populations harmed by inequitable planning. What began in South Central is now an international movement of Embedded Planners with feet on the street. Jonathan has guest lectured widely on Embedded Planning praxis. His speaking engagements include Columbia University, UCLA, Ohio State, University of Utah, Pratt Institute, Stanford Engineering, Woodbury University, and East LA College Architecture; state and national APA Conferences in California, Iowa, and Louisiana; and public forums such as AARP Livable Communities, City Parks Alliance, and the SF Urban Film Fest. Jonathan has been a leader in the American Planning Association for over a decade. He’s a member of the Latinos and Planning Division and is published in APA’s practitioner magazine, Planning. He previously served as APA Los Angeles Social Media Director and was the Southern California representative on the APA National Social Equity Task Force. This year, Jonathan proudly received the Planning Advocate Award of Excellence from APA Los Angeles and the Planning Pioneer Award of Excellence from APA Inland Empire. Born and raised in LA’s Latino/a Eastside, Jonathan serves as a mentor to First Gen students and emerging planners. A product of the California public school system from kindergarten to graduate school, he holds an M.A. in Urban Planning from UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, and additional degrees in library and information science, political science, and architecture. Connect at c1typlann3r.blog.

    54 min
  2. Navigating Early Careers: Insights from APA

    9 SEPT

    Navigating Early Careers: Insights from APA

    In this episode of Urban Planning is Not Boring, Sam and Nat are joined by three representatives from various APA California chapters who share their experiences as young and emerging planners and discuss opportunities at the upcoming APA California Conference: Tony Lopez, APA Inland Empire Kyle Wilson, APA Orange County Brittany Montano, APA Los Angeles Join us as we dive into the world of young and emerging planners with a focus on the American Planning Association (APA) and its support for early-career professionals. We explore how APA helps shape the future of urban planning by fostering leadership, providing mentorship, and building networks for young professionals. Join us as we hear from members of the Young and Emerging Planners group, who share their experiences, challenges, and the resources that have helped them navigate the early stages of their careers. Whether you’re a student, a new planner, or someone looking to support the next generation of urbanists, this episode offers valuable insights on how APA is empowering the future of planning.  APA California Conference Free Student Day: Saturday, September 28th from 8 AM - 11 PM Student Day Sessions: Urban Planning is Not Boring (UPINB) Unplugged: Insights for Professional Growth Your Dream Job May Not Exist (Yet!) – The Long and Winding Road for Planning Careers Cultivating Your internship for a Successful Planning Career What Students Want/What Employers Need (CPF) Dude, Where’s my Job? Finding your Way in the Planning Profession Other Student / YEP Activities: Buddy Program (Mentorship) Headshots Career Day - Resume/Interview Workshops (Sunday 9/29) Saturday Night Mixer Tactical Urbanism Workshop UPINB Meet and Greet (Saturday, September 28th @ 8 AM) and Live Episode How to Participate:  Register for the Conference: apacalifornia.org/conference/2024-conferences Students will earn a $100 stipend for volunteering (min. 4 hours) at the conference. Sign up with our interest form and we will connect with you. Please be sure to register for the conference as well.

    51 min
  3. VMT 101: Understanding the Basics of Vehicle Miles Traveled

    12 FEB

    VMT 101: Understanding the Basics of Vehicle Miles Traveled

    Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring! In this episode, we dive into an acronym many of you are likely familiar with, VMT. We start by breaking down the concept of VMT - vehicle miles traveled - which essentially measures the total distance traveled by vehicles, typically on a daily basis. To illustrate, imagine driving 20 miles to work, 5 miles to the gym, and 15 miles back home from the gym. That totals to 40 vehicle miles traveled for the day. But why does VMT matter? We explore the legislative context surrounding VMT, particularly in California where initiatives like SB 743 have revolutionized the way transportation impacts are evaluated for new development projects. Instead of solely focusing on traffic flow and congestion reduction (Level of Service (LOS)), the emphasis has shifted towards reducing VMT to combat issues like greenhouse gas emissions. But it's not just about legislation; reducing VMT brings a multitude of co-benefits, from mitigating air pollution and water pollution to promoting active lifestyles and improving mental health. We examine various approaches to address VMT, including Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies, transit subsidies, bike and pedestrian infrastructure improvements, and thoughtful land use decisions. Ultimately, everything seems to converge on the principles of walkability and accessibility, with the vision of creating vibrant, sustainable communities where driving less is not only feasible but also desirable. Join us as we explore the multifaceted world of VMT and its implications for the future of transportation and urban development.

    39 min
  4. Beyond Home and Work: Exploring the Importance of Third Places

    31 JAN

    Beyond Home and Work: Exploring the Importance of Third Places

    Welcome back to Urban Planning Is Not Boring! In today's episode, we delve into the concept of third places – those vital social hubs that bridge the gap between our homes (first places) and workplaces (second places). Join us as we uncover why third places are essential to fostering vibrant, connected communities. American sociologist Ray Oldenburg introduced the notion of third places as crucial to democracy and social cohesion in this 1989 book "The Great Good Place".  Despite the allure of digital connectivity, research indicates that physical third places offer unique benefits. From promoting informal social interaction to strengthening productivity, these spaces play a pivotal role in shaping our collective well-being. However, several impacts to the accessibility and allure of third places, including urban sprawl,  technological advancements, and the COVID-19 pandemic, have created a decline in traditional third places. We examine what defines a third place – its atmosphere, accessibility, and sense of community – and discuss strategies urban planners can implement to revitalize these vital spaces. From reimagining public spaces to fostering mixed-use developments, city planning efforts are adapting to prioritize the creation of third places. If you've been on TikTok or Reels lately, you've probably seen the rise of third places into mainstream media, thanks to creators like @signedbritt. The discussion on third places gives a name to the phenomenon that many people have experienced, such as after graduating college and realizing how walkable and accessible many amenities are on a college campus.  Join us as we navigate the past, present, and future of third places, and discover why these social sanctuaries are key to fostering social connections.  Sources: Protecting the “Third Place:” The Pandemic’s Impact on Commercial Corridors and How to Support Them Third places, true citizen spaces Do Yourself a Favor and Go Find a ‘Third Place’ “Third places” as community builders

    44 min
  5. Spotlight on APA Inland Empire

    16 JAN

    Spotlight on APA Inland Empire

    Welcome back to Urban Planning is Not Boring! In this episode, Nat and Sam sit down with representatives from the American Planning Association (APA) Inland Empire Section to dive into the excitement surrounding the upcoming APA California Conference in Riverside from September 28th through October 1st. Discover the purpose and vision behind APA and its Inland Empire Section, explore the initiatives of the Diversity Division, and learn how the Young and Emerging Planners Group is shaping the future of urban planning. Join us as we unravel the details of the APA California Conference - the theme, dates, and location - and explore how this year's conference aligns with the pressing challenges and opportunities faced by planners today. Delve into the urban planning trends and history of the Inland Empire, and gain insights into the strategies employed to encourage diverse participation in the call for abstracts. Our guests share how inclusivity is prioritized in the selection process. Get a sneak peek into the conference atmosphere, as we discuss memorable sessions from previous conferences and how APA Inland Empire fosters collaboration and networking opportunities for attendees, speakers, and exhibitors. We'll also be spreading the word about the call for sessions and registration, so if you're passionate about planning or have a story to share, this episode is for you! Mark your calendars, stay informed, and be part of this vibrant planning community. Tune in to discover what's in store at the APA California Conference and learn the best ways to stay updated on APA IE and California events. Episode Information APA California 2024 Conference APA California 2024 Call for Proposals About Emily Elliot - Emily is a planning consultant based in Redlands, California and focuses her work within the Inland Empire. With a background in both the public and private sectors, she currently leads the newly minted Community Planning practice for MNS Engineers. A first-generation college graduate, she earned an associate degree from Palomar Community College, a bachelor’s degree in Geography from San Diego State University, and a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from CalPoly Pomona which she followed with AICP certification. Emily volunteers her time to the American Planning Association as Director of the Inland Empire Section and co-chair of the 2024 state conference host committee, and as a Community and Route Steward for Bikepacking Roots, a non-profit that supports and advances bikepacking, the growth of a diverse bikepacking community, and access to and the conservation of public lands. About Ebony J. McGee Andersen - Ebony J. McGee Andersen is the founder and Director of ejma Planning + Development, Inc.; a boutique planning firm specializing in commercial and industrial project management. She is an experienced Urban and Regional Planner with a background in natural resource development, including oil and gas and surface mining entitlement, CEQA and regulatory compliance. Ebony has a bachelor’s degree in political science and African/African American Studies from the University of California, Davis and a Masters Degree in Urban and Regional Planning from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. About Tony Lopez - Tony is an embedded urban planner based in Southern California where he is a product of the California Community College and Public University systems. He earned an associate degree in behavioral science from Mount San Antonio College and a bachelor’s degree in urban and Regional Planning from Cal Poly Pomona. Looking to gain a global lens, Tony sought out his master’s deg...

    43 min

About

Passionate about climate change mitigation, finding equitable solutions to the housing crisis, and more, Sam Ellman and Natalie Ikhrata dive into various topics related to the field of urban planning that are anything but boring! This podcast aims to break down complex urban planning concepts and present them in an accessible and engaging way for listeners of all backgrounds. Whether you are a seasoned urban planner or simply interested in learning more about how cities are designed and built, "Urban Planning is Not Boring" is the perfect podcast for you.

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